Carole Lee Vander Kooi Kornelis, age 79, of Lynden, passed away peacefully Wednesday, Nov. 29, 2023, at the Christian Health Care Center.
Carole is beloved by her kids, and remembered for being faithful and loving.
Carole was born Aug. 5, 1944, in Sumas to parents Burtus and Edna Scheffer. Her siblings were Gwen, Denny, Darrol, Marilyn, Donna and Jane.
Carole graduated from Lynden Christian High School and Everett College earning her registered nursing degree. She worked for Dr. Spady, Dr. Anderson, and the Lynden School District. Carole was named Sol H. Lewis Woman of the Year in 2011. As the school nurse, she was instrumental in forming the Lynden chapter of the Boys and Girls Club. She enjoyed travel, spending time with her grandchildren, and was a member of First Reformed Church. Carole married Larry Vander Kooi on Aug. 27, 1964. Their children are Lisa, Michael and Chad. Larry passed away Nov. 17, 1998. Carole went on to marry Roger Kornelis.
Carole is preceded in death by her husband Larry Vander Kooi, son Michael, siblings Gwen and Denny. She is greatly missed by her husband Roger Kornelis and his three children. Her daughter Lisa Rognlie (Matt Norman), son Chad Vander Kooi (Andrea), grandchildren Emilee Hansen (Marcus), Kamdyn and Landon Vander Kooi, Brandin Rognlie (Madi) and Nicholette Druk (Tommy); brother Darrol Scheffer (Carolyn), sisters Marilyn Dekoster (Larry), Donna Van Wieren (Larry), and Jane Bosman (Jack); and friend, Jeanne Van Dalen.
Memorials may be sent to the Boys and Girls Club in Lynden and Whatcom Hospice.
A family graveside committal will begin at 1:15 p.m. in Monumenta Cemetery on Friday, Dec. 8, 2023, followed by a 2 p.m. memorial service at First Reformed Church, Lynden.
Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Gillies Funeral Home and Cremation Services.
